Analog film processing

After the exposure film processing is the second essential step in analog photography. Processing determines further reprocessing. We offer controlled and professional processing at a high quality level.

Technique

no-pixel processes analog film in black-and-white negative (BW), color negative (C-41) and slide negative (E6). Our film processing ranges from small format (35mm), roll film (MF, 120) to large format (4x5, 5x7 and 8x10inch). Films are processed in a Rotation Processor by the company Jobo. We use chemical substances by Tetenal and Fuji for the development of color negatives (C-41) and positives (E-6). For the development of black-and-white negatives, Kodak D-76 is used each at individualized development times.

As an alternative, we offer professional agitation processing with free developer’s choice for black-and-white films (4x5inch) (see_agitation processing).

Workflow

Films are processed in a rotation processor. That means, we wind small formats and roll film on a spiral and subsequently they are developed consistently in a rotating chemistry bath with measured temperature at a preprogrammed time.

As the development process is automatic and closely monitored, the results are easily reproducible. Flat film (4x5 to 8x10inch) is developed with special care for the material in particular tanks. Once the film is processed and extensively rinsed, it is dried in a dust-free cupboard and particular to the further processing it is packaged or prepared for digitalization.

Crossover

When using the crossover processing technique, interesting color shifts emerge. This is accomplished by processing the slide positives rather in C-41 than in E6 chemistry, but color negatives in E6 chemistry. Especially slide positives reveal uniquely interesting colors, and images that are high in contrast, when using crossover processing. To this end select the option “Crossover” in the order configuration and please make sure you label each correct film. Please make sure, that the post-processing impact on any kind of film material cannot be undone.

Push/Pull

“Pushing” or “pulling” a film means to expose the film at higher (push) or lower (pull) ASA value than the indicated rated sensitivity. no-pixel offers push/pull processing as an option in the order form. When choosing the option “Push/Pull”, a window appears, where the actual exposed ASA value has to be filled in. For example: An Ilford HP5 with 400 ASA was pushed on 800 ASA, “800 ASA” has to be filled in the additional space. Please note: If more films of the same kind were sent in, please label each particular film. Even if more films of the same size were sent in, the “push/pull”-film has to be clearly recognizable.

Agitation processing

Black-and-white negative processing achieves the best results using the agitation processing. Keyword: edge effect. We use a Heiland Tas agitation processor in order to achieve reproducible results. This specific processor is programmable and works continuously during the processing time in an adjusted agitation tact at variable speed. For that to happen, the film is processed on film spools in the formats 135, 120/220 and 4x5inch. Below “order/film processing” you can choose the additional option “agitation processing”. Additionally customers are able to select the adequate black-and-white processor. The following processors are available: Kodak D-76, Ilford Perceptol, Rodinal and Mörsch Tanol. We provide large listings and tests for diverse film/processor combinations, push/pull and processing times. Please label the correct black-and-white films.